Fabulous Florence

Florence

Florence has provided the idyllic backdrop to many a romantic movie, and it’s easy to see why. Around the tumbling Arno River magnificent feats of historic architecture vie for attention, proudly boasting treasured artworks by the Italian masters.

Take in breath-taking vistas from the splendid Renaissance dome of Florence Duomo. Relive the romantic encounter of Lucy Honeychurch and George Emerson in A Room With A View by the beautiful Ponte Vecchio Bridge, and share in the protagonists’ awe as you admire celebrated frescoes by Giotto and Gaddi inside the stunning Santa Croce Basilica. Then make your way to the world-renowned Galleria dell’Accademia to behold the sculptural majesty of Michelangelo’s David. Or sit back with a frothy cappucino at a pavement café and watch stylishly-attired Florentines saunter past. Gaze at the amber-gilded ripples of the Arno during a sunset stroll, then tuck into hearty Tuscan stew washed down with chilled Chianti.

Florence sightseeing

Skip the long lines at the prestigious Accademia and Uffizi art galleries with this not-to-be-missed tour. Led by your expert guide you will spend the morning exploring the Accademia Gallery, home to celebrated works including Michelangelo’s world-famous statue of David and San Matteo (‘St Matthew’). In the afternoon, you will then be guided to the special skip the line entrance of the Uffizi Gallery, where the superb collection of Renaissance masterpieces includes works by Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto and more.

Discover the fascinating historic cities of Siena and San Gimagnano on this day trip from Florence. Journey through the idyllic Chianti countryside that inspired many a Renaissance work of art, with its undulating landscape of olive groves and vineyards. On your guided tour of the medieval walled city of Siena, you’ll visit the cathedral, museum and beautiful square of Piazza del Campo. You’ll then continue to the tiny city of San Gimagnano, famous for its frescoes and other artistic treasures.

Skip the long entrance lines to the magnificent Florence Duomo and take in spectacular vistas from Brunelleschi’s Dome. This iconic terracotta structure is the masterpiece of eminent Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi. After skipping the line to the Duomo, your expert guide will explain the history of the dome before leading you up the 463-step staircase to the top. While this steep climb is not for the faint-hearted, the views at the end are definitely worth it.